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How to Perform a Blood Pressure Measurement in a Cat

Doppler blood pressure measurement in cats:
A step-by-step guide

Blood pressure measurement is essential for monitoring a cat’s health, especially if the cat is at risk for conditions like kidney disease, heart problems, or hypertension.

One of the most common methods vets use to measure blood pressure in cats is the Doppler technique, known for its accuracy and reliability.

While it may seem technical initially, with practice and patience, you can learn how to perform this procedure at home or in a clinical setting.

In this video and post, we’ll walk you through performing a Doppler blood pressure measurement in a cat. We’ll cover everything from setting up the cuff to obtaining accurate readings and provide extra tips to help ensure a stress-free experience for you and your cat.

Blood pressure measurement in a cat

Step 1.

Start by selecting the appropriate cuff size for your cat. For most cats, a cuff about two centimetres wide works best. The cuff must be snug but not too tight, and the correct size is essential for an accurate reading.

Ensure the cuff is the right size by comparing it to the circumference of your cat’s limb. The cuff should be about 40% of the limb’s circumference.

Gently secure the cuff to your cat’s forelimb or hindlimb, typically just above the paw, using a small piece of tape. Be careful not to wrap the tape too tightly, which could affect the reading. The goal is to keep the cuff in place without constricting blood flow.

Step 2.

Getting good contact with the skin is essential for the Doppler probe to pick up the pulse accurately. If your cat has a lot of fur on its limbs, you have two options:

Clipping the hair at the back of the foot is ideal, especially if your cat is comfortable with clippers. This creates a smooth surface for better conductivity.

Parting the hair with gel is an alternative if you prefer not to clip the fur. Apply ultrasound gel generously to ensure good contact between the probe and the skin.

Step 3.

It’s time to apply the Doppler crystal probe to detect your cat’s pulse. Start by turning the Doppler’s volume down to avoid startling your cat with sudden loud noises.

Gently place the crystal probe on the back of your cat’s foot, applying light but steady pressure. The probe should be directly over the artery on the inside of the foot.

Adjust the pressure slightly until you hear the pulse whooshing. This sound confirms that the probe is positioned correctly and that you’re ready to start the blood pressure measurement.

If you’re having trouble finding the pulse, move the probe slightly to different positions or apply more gel. Be patient, as this step can sometimes take a few tries. Use enough gel to ensure a clear sound transmission, but not so much that it becomes messy.

Measuring blood pressure in cat

Measuring blood pressure

This is the most critical step in the process—measuring your cat’s blood pressure.

Release all pressure from the cuff before you begin inflating it.

Slowly inflate the cuff using the sphygmomanometer (the device used to measure blood pressure) until you no longer hear the pulse sound. This means the blood flow has been temporarily cut off.

Then, slowly deflate the cuff. Listen closely as the pulse sound returns. The number on the sphygmomanometer at the exact moment the sound reappears is the systolic blood pressure—this is the most important reading for cats.

Ignore the first reading. Cats can sometimes be anxious, which may cause an inaccurate initial result. Take at least five more measurements and average them for the most accurate reading. For example, if your readings are 120, 110, 120, 115, 112, you would average them to get your cat’s systolic pressure.

Allow the sphygmomanometer to return to zero between each measurement to ensure accuracy.

Keep a record of all the readings you take. Consistent monitoring over time provides valuable information for you and your vet, mainly if your cat’s condition is chronic or worsening.

Cats are sensitive to their environment and can pick up on your stress. Stay calm, speak softly, and offer treats to relax your cat. If your cat becomes agitated, take a short break before continuing the measurements. Stress can elevate blood pressure, leading to inaccurate readings.

Regular monitoring

 Regular blood pressure monitoring is essential for cats with chronic kidney disease or hypertension. Work with your vet to establish a monitoring schedule that suits your cat’s health needs.

Measuring your cat’s blood pressure using the Doppler method may seem complex initially, but it becomes much more manageable with practice and patience. 

Are you worried about your cat’s health?

If you are concerned about your cat, please reach out to our friendly team. Call us on 1300 228 377 or fill out the contact form below. In an emergency, please contact your local vet.

For vets – to refer a patient or book a telehealth consultation, please call us on 1300 228 377, book through the portal or fill in the form.

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Contacting Us

Pet Owners
If you would like to talk about treatment for your cat, call us on 1300 228 377 or fill in the form.
In an emergency, please contact your local vet.

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To refer a patient or book a telehealth consultation please call us on 1300 228 377, book through the portal or fill in the form. For advice calls, please see the guidelines here.

1300 228 377
1-15 Lexington Rd,
Underwood, QLD, AU, 4119
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